If someone in your house suffers from a dog allergy, you know how difficult it can be to keep them comfortable and safe. Dogs are a big part of many families, so it’s important to find ways to make sure everyone can enjoy being together.
In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to help a dog allergy sufferer in your home. Hopefully, with these tips, everyone can feel at ease and happy!
How to live with allergies and dogs
People with allergies can consider keeping their pets. There are many ways to manage your allergies without having to give up your dog loving lifestyle.
Dogs are great! But if you’re allergic to them, you might want to implement some strategies to sneeze, cough and itch less.
Dog Allergy Symptoms
Dog allergy symptoms include sneezing, coughing, breathing problems, watery eyes, skin rashes, and itching. Allergists can help diagnose your condition and treat it properly.
How to Live With Pet Allergies If You Have No Choice
Allergists suggest that the best-case situation is to have non-furry pets like reptiles or fish. However, this may not always be possible. You may love dogs, or need to live with furry pets.
The best thing to do is to avoid getting exposed to allergens as much as possible.
Adopt a low shedding or hypoallergenic dog
Allergies to dogs are caused by dander that drops from the hair, skin, and saliva.
There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog, but some breeds are known for having less dander. If you’re looking to adopt a dog, consider a low-shedding breed or one that is known for being hypoallergenic. This will help reduce the amount of dander in your home.
Hybrid dogs like Goldendoodles or non-shedding dogs like Poodles are known for being hypoallergenic (or about as close as you can get).
Their wavy or curly non-shedding coats are tolerated by many dog owners that suffer otherwise from allergy. The Poodle Club officially recognizes that Poodles are a popular hypoallergenic dog breed.
Cleanliness is so important when it comes to pet allergies
Pets need to be kept away from hard floors and furniture. You should use a damp cloth or wet swiffers to clean up spills. Also vacuum regularly to remove dog hair.
Air filters can help keep the air as clear and clean as possible. Most allergy sufferers also recommend washing your dog frequently to reduce the amount of protein-laden dander.
Bathing your pets outside helps remove any fur or dander that may linger inside your home.
Further risk: Pollen and outdoor allergens attaching to dog’s coat
Wiping down your dog when they comes in from outside is a great idea. Pollen is very dangerous for people who suffer from hay fever. When your pets come indoors, they bring pollen with them. This pollen can cause an allergic reaction. You should always clean your pets’ fur after they go out.
What Size Are Allergens?
Allergens are substances that trigger allergic reactions in some people. They are spread by the air. They vary in size, and are measured in micrometers.
Wash up to reduce allergies
Wash your pets once or twice per week, if possible. Try to clean yourself up before handling them. Don’t use shampoos that contain chemicals that might irritate your dog’s skin or dry the oils from the coat.
Ask your vet for suggestions for shampoos if you are worried – but any puppy shampoo will typically be fine.
Clean and pick up
Decluttering your house makes it easier to clean the house. Vacuuming and wiping down surfaces helps get rid of allergens. Using an electrostatic bag or a HEPA filter or fan makes vacuuming much better.
Steam cleaning carpets helps get rid of allergens.
Get medical help
Over-the-counter anti-histamines may work for some people. But if you’re allergic to something, then you need to see a specialist about getting prescriptions for allergy medications.
Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that could help you get rid of your allergies. You should talk to your doctor about this option.
Keep your dog out of the bedroom
Sorry, but no using your dog as a body pillow. Your bedroom should be completely off-limits if you’re allergic to dogs.
You’ve got a better chance of getting some rest and recovery when your sleep area has an allergy load that’s low. Crate training is strongly reccomended.
Clean your carpets and rugs at least once a week
Dander is a type of hair that comes off dead skin cells. When people get allergies or asthma, dander can cause them to sneeze and wheeze.
Vacuum cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters remove most of this dander. Rugs should be cleaned regularly because dust mites thrive in carpet fibers.
Takeaways
There are a number of ways to help manage allergies when living with a dog. One is to try and adopt a dog that is known for having low levels of dander. It’s also important to keep your home clean, and to regularly vacuum and wipe down surfaces.
You CAN live with a dog if you have allergies – but it will always require extra work and effort.